NC reports highest number of weekly flu deaths this season

Forty-four people statewide have died of the flu since October, officials said.

Adults ages 25 to 49 continue to be most affected, accounting for 19 deaths in North Carolina, followed by those ages 50 to 64, with 14 deaths. Nine people 65 or older have died of the flu, as has one infant and one child between ages 5 and 17.

Still, the number of visits to hospital emergency rooms and to physician offices and outpatient clinics for flu-like symptoms declined last week, officials said.

High levels of flu activity are expected over the coming weeks as flu season typically peaks during January and February.

The best protection against the flu is a flu shot, which is available for anyone 6 months old or older. It takes at least two weeks to build up a full immunity against the virus.

Hand-washing, coughing into your sleeve and keeping a safe distance from people with flu symptoms are practical ways to help prevent the spread of the flu.